Successful 3G Bidders Eligible For 2G Spectrum

Successful 3G Bidders Eligible For 2G SpectrumIn a perceptible bid to build the confidence of foreign players just before the auction process for the third generation (3G) spectrum begins, the government said the foreign companies, which successfully bid in the auction, would also be kept in the queue for second-generation (2G) spectrum.

The assurance came from R. Ashok, member (finance), Telecom Commission, the apex government body for the sector, at a pre-bid conference yesterday.

Commenting over the government decision, Ashok said, “For a new entrant in 3G who has obtained a licence, it will be in the queue for 2G spectrum”.

Third-generation mobile technology, or 3G, will allow telecom companies to offer high-end services such as high-speed Internet, interactive gaming, ultra fast downloads of movies, video clips and music files, and video calls on the mobile.

The Department of Telecom (DoT) is due to conduct a global auction for 3G spectrum from January 16 next and has set a base price of Rs 2,200 crore for spectrum in all service areas.

Firms interested to participate in the auction process are required to submit applications between December 26 and January 5.

Currently, all telecom services in India are offered using second generation (2G) cellular technology. After the pre-bid conference today and the filing of applications by January 5, the names of those bidders who pass the eligibility criteria will be announced on January 9. A mock auction would be held between January 12 and 13.

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